Sudanese female doctors in paediatrics

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatrics
• Gender Studies in Medicine

Background:

• Increasing numbers of female medical graduates globally contrast with reported suboptimal postgraduate achievements.
• This study focuses on the professional achievements of Sudanese female pediatricians versus their male colleagues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare the postgraduate professional and academic achievements of female and male pediatricians in Sudan.
• To identify barriers hindering the career progression of female pediatricians.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study utilizing questionnaires distributed to pediatricians in Sudanese universities and the Ministry of Health.
• Data collected from 95 respondents (73 female, 22 male), representing 65.1% of the surveyed population.

Main Results:

• Significantly fewer female pediatricians achieved higher academic ranks (associate professor, professor) compared to males.
• A higher percentage of females lacked publications and declined international training or positions outside the capital due to family and cultural reasons.
• Lack of workplace nursery facilities and an unsatisfactory work environment were noted.

Conclusions:

• Socio-cultural factors, including family responsibilities and cultural obstacles, significantly impede the professional and academic advancement of female pediatricians in Sudan.
• Lack of mentorship and inadequate work facilities further contribute to suboptimal achievements.
• Targeted interventions addressing these barriers are necessary to promote gender equity in medical careers.